Nun Serving Time for Stealing $128,000 from Parishioners

Sister Mary Ann Rapp has been sentenced to 90 days in jail, five years of probation, and 100 hours of community service, for stealing $128,000 from two small parishes in Orleans County, N.Y., say news reports.

Rapp pocketed the money from the weekly collection plate and other church funds between 2006 and 2011, reports upstate New York TV station WGRZ.

In her statement before the court Monday, she said she took the cash to sustain her gambling addiction.

The judge has ordered Rapp to pay back the full amount stolen from St. Mark Church in Kendall, N.Y., and St. Mary in Holley, N.Y.

Sister Edith Wyss, the provincial minister for the 133 members of the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity, made a statement in support for Sister Rapp.

She said, "Despite the enormous support that Sister Mary Anne received from friends, parishioners and her religious community, her proactive approach to her recovery and her involvement in meaningful ministry, the judge determined that she deserved jail time."

Sister Edith went on to say, "We feel great empathy for the two church communities affected by her actions. Sister Mary Anne is a member of our community and we will continue to help and support her."